Northwest Observer | February 15-21, 2018 by pscommunications

Feb. 15 - 21, 2018

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Elevated TTHM levels not considered an emergency, town ofﬁcials say

Municipal water customers assured the problem will be resolved by June 30 by STEVE MANN

STOKESDALE – Stokesdale water customers were recently notified by mail that the annual average level

of a group of four chemicals in the town’s water system that have been linked to an increased risk of cancer exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standard in 2017. In addition, the water system was cited by the state for failure to submit a required operational evaluation level report for the fourth quarter of 2017. The Town was informed of the

violations Jan. 26; the letter was sent to customers Feb. 2. The EPA limits the total concentration of chloroform, bromoform, bromodichloromethane and dibromochloromethane – known as TTHMs – to 0.08 milligrams per liter, or 80 parts per billion, in treated water. The sample location in Stokes-

...continued on p. 2

Training session to focus on council, manager roles Professor of public leadership and conﬂict resolution will be one of two trainers at the Feb. 20 session, which is open to the public by PATTI STOKES SUMMERFIELD – “Healthy conflict gives us an opportunity to express our ideas and learn more about others’ perspectives so we can come up with solutions that last. Working through conflict can make us stronger, more resilient, and more accepting.” So writes Peg Carlson, professor of Practice in Public Leadership and

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IN THIS ISSUE Your Questions ............................4 Stokesdale Town Council ............. 6 YouthSync ..................................10 High School Sports ................... 10 Community Calendar .............. 12 NWO Business & Real Estate .... 13 Real Estate Transactions/Briefs 14 News Briefs ................................20 Real Estate Q & A......................20 Student Profiles .........................23 Grins & Gripes ...........................24 Crime/Incident Reports ...........26 Classifieds ................................. 27 Index of Advertisers ................. 31

“Working through conflict can make us stronger, more resilient, and more accepting.” – Peg Carlson, professor, UNC School of Government Organizational Development at UNC School of Government and director of the Center for Public Leadership and Governance. Since Summerfield Town Council members have frequently been in conflict in recent

...continued on p. 2

Photo by Steve Mann/NWO

A footbridge about 3 feet wide and about 10 feet long made from treated wood was built across a drainage area on Hole No. 3 on the disc golf course at Stokesdale Town Park. On Feb. 8 the town council voted to remove the structure, which had not been authorized.

LEVELS OF TTHMS ...continued from p. 1

dale with the highest annual average in 2017 had a concentration of 0.082. TTHMs are byproducts formed when a disinfectant such as chlorine reacts with organic material in the water. Higher TTHM levels normally occur during the summer months when there are higher temperatures. Stokesdale is working with Meritech, the town’s licensed water-system operator, and the N.C. Rural Water Association and expects the problem to be corrected by June 30, according to the letter. Water samples checking TTHM levels for reporting to the state Department of Environmental Quality are taken quarterly at two sites: Loyola Drive near the downtown area, and on U.S. 158 near Culp Home Fashions. The annual average level of 0.082 was recorded at the U.S. 158 site. In addition, Meritech tests at the last hydrant on U.S. 158 before the waterline from Winston-Salem connects to Stokesdale’s at the Forsyth/ Guilford line for comparison. Bill Merritt, president of Meritech, told the town council Feb. 8 there

normally isn’t much of a problem with TTHMs during the winter because the water is cooler and there is no chemical reaction.

Stokesdale Mayor John Flynt said flushing records from May to November in 2016 show 1.5 million gallons of water were flushed.

The TTHM levels from testing Nov. 1 registered 0.094 at the Loyola site and 0.095 at the U.S. 158 site. But town staff said that may have been because the chlorine booster system at the connection point didn’t work most of October. The samples the previous year, taken Nov. 2, 2016, registered 0.058 and 0.068 at those sites, respectively.

Courtney Driver, director of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities that sells water to Stokesdale, said that water system has not been cited for violations of elevated TTHM levels. She said a model of the water system showed seven areas where automatic flushers were needed to improve water age, typically dead-end lines with low flow and areas farthest from the treatment facility.

One problem, Merritt said, is the TTHM levels already are elevated when the water from Winston-Salem reaches Stokesdale. Two of three water samples taken at the last hydrant before the Forsyth/ Guilford county line in 2017 showed elevated TTHM levels, according to Meritech’s report. The reading Aug. 3 was 0.098; the one Nov. 1 was 0.093. “I think you need to talk to them to see what they can do to remedy the situation,” Merritt said. Because chlorine dissipates the more distance water must travel and is affected by such variables as temperature, flushing and tank cycling are two ways to maintain water quality. Stokesdale does both.

One of the automatic flushers, installed Dec. 7, was a few hundred yards from the Forsyth/Guilford county line on U.S. 158. Before the installa-

TRAINING SESSION ...continued from p. 1

months, Carlson has agreed to try to help them move forward. This Tuesday, Feb. 20, she will travel to Summerfield along with Frayda Bluestein, a former practicing attorney and associate dean of the School of Government’s faculty development, who is a frequent contributor to the School’s

tion of the flushers, it took an estimated 5 to 7 days for water to travel the more than 10 miles from the treatment plant to Stokesdale, Driver said. After the flusher installation, she said, that time has been reduced to an estimated 3 to 4 days. Merritt and John Williams of the Rural Water Association discussed several options the Town might have, but both said flushing probably isn’t the answer. “We’re not so sure flushing is the answer when the incoming water is over the limit,” Williams said. Driver said she would be happy to talk to Stokesdale officials about the problem. local government law blog. At the request of Town Manager Scott Whitaker and Mayor Gail Dunham, Carlson and Bluestein will provide a two-hour training session that will include a review of the roles of the town council and manager in a council-manager form of government. “We had just come off the retreat and that situation (in which the retreat was cancelled due to a dispute over the agenda which resulted in three

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council members not attending),” Whitaker said in explaining how the training session came about. “The following week I attended a manager’s conference and asked who at the UNC School of Government would be the best person to help us. At about the same time, the mayor had reached out to the School of Government and gotten the same contact. Fast forward to today, and the School is willing to have a session with us to see if they can clarify and answer any questions about our roles.” The two-hour session, which will be offered at no charge, will entail one hour with Summerfield Town Council members and the town manager to review the roles and expectations of those serving in the council-manager form of government; the session will also include a review of the Town of Summerfield’s charter and Code of Ethics. Whitaker said Dunham has requested he not be present during the second half of the session, when council members are expected to work on developing a plan for moving forward in a productive manner. Depending on the outcome of the two-hour session, the council may agree to undergo additional training with School of Government representatives. The Feb. 20 training session will begin at 9 a.m. and be held at Summerfield Town Hall. The session is open to the public, but there will not

be a designated time for questions or comments from the public. Summerfield Town Council will meet again on Thursday, Feb. 22, 7 p.m., at Summerfield Community Center, 5474 Centerfield Road, to continue the Feb. 12 monthly meeting, since a closed session scheduled for that meeting was not held because Bill Hill, the town attorney, was not present. The council is expected to go into closed session Feb. 22 immediately after reconvening to discuss two items: (a) consult with an attorney in order to preserve the attorney-client privilege as provided under NCGS 143-318.11(a) (3) and (b) to hear or investigate a complaint, charge, or grievance by or against an individual public officer or employee as provided under NCGS 143-318.11(a)(6). Additionally, Mayor Dunham has requested the council add a third item to discuss in closed session, which would be “a review of the town manager’s personnel file as necessary for his annual review.” That item, however, was not agreed upon at the Feb. 12 meeting and council member John O’Day said he would not agree to it unless the town attorney told him “this was okay, face-to-face and in closed session,” adding, “What the public doesn’t understand is there is a lot going on and we want to be very careful about what we do or allow access to without setting a precedent.”

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handle the aforementioned growth and great care has been taken to minimalize, as much as possible, the impact of additional drain lines on the wooded area. Unfortunately, we will need to lose some of the trees to attain the greater good of this system upgrade.

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“The wooded portion in question at Oak Ridge Town Park is approximately 40 acres,” Lannon noted. “Of this,

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“The cleared sloped area the writer refers to is actually already serving as the park’s original septic drain field,” Terry Lannon, Oak Ridge’s parks and recreation director, wrote in an email response to this reader’s question. “Due to tremendous growth in park usage, the current septic system has been rendered inadequate for handling substantial numbers of people at large events and has become a health safety issue. “We were fortunate to find additional suitable soil adjacent to the current field,” Lannon explained. “The upgraded septic system is being designed to

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being considered will not only require removal of much of the existing wooded area, but will also require removal of a large portion of the existing mountain bike and hiking trail network that us residents use daily. I’d like to understand the logic.

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“The new drain field will not affect the hiking trail network whatsoever,” Lannon confirmed. “It will, however, require us to re-route part of the Deadfall mountain bike trail. The amount of the trail to be moved will be minimal in comparison to its nearly 5-mile length.”

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67,000 square feet has been surveyed and out of that, the maximum area to be cleared will be about 1 acre.

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Oak Ridge doctor driven by faith, family Dr. Philip McGowen says love of God and family are the two key things that help keep him focused and balanced as he cares for his patients at LeBauer Healthcare at Oak Ridge. The father of six children says he tries to keep those things as the driving force for all he does.

home to his wife and six children, ranging in ages from 4 to 12. When handling the common illnesses that impact every family this time of year, he said his family is no different than others.

Photo by Nora Murray/NWO

Dr. Philip McGowen joined LeBauer Healthcare at Oak Ridge in 2012.

“We probably do less than most,” he said, laughing. “We try honey sometimes, and occasional cough medicine, but really we just let it go and run its course.” And then he added, “We do remind the kids to cover their mouths when they cough and wash their hands.”

“It helps make me more patient and a better listener for my patients’ concerns,” McGowen said. After joining LeBauer Healthcare at Oak Ridge six years ago, McGowen moved his family from Brown Summit to Oak Ridge in order to live in the community he serves. “This office is very nice,” he said of his surroundings located just off N.C. 68. “It doesn’t feel like a medical office and our staff and manager try to make this a very happy place for everyone.” McGowen didn’t start his career in medicine. His first degree was in psychology and he worked for a Social Services agency in Arkansas for several years before deciding he wanted to go into the medical field. “I provided services for people with disabilities, and I took care of a teenager with cerebral palsy,” he said. “Through that experience I got some exposure to the medical world because

Acknowledging it is the time of year when sickness is all around us, McGowen said the best thing to do is try to stay home when you don’t feel well, wash your hands – and get a flu shot. Between work and family, McGowen’s free time is very limited. the teenager was sick a lot, and I was encouraged by his mother who was an ex-radiology tech to pursue medicine.” Returning to school, McGowen earned his medical degree at the University of Arkansas before joining the Moses Cone Family Residency Program. He’s been in North Carolina ever since. McGowen said he chose to pursue family medicine because it allows him to treat a variety of patients, which he believes makes him a better doctor.

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“It gives you a different perspective on how illness affects people, and how they deal with it in their families,” McGowen said. “It also helps you broaden your thinking when you’re trying to figure out what’s wrong with someone. Sometimes input from what happened with a 10-year-old that day can be valuable when you see a 60-year-old patient. There are pearls you can learn that cross over different generations.” After a day of caring for patients, McGowen goes

“For the most part, I have time for work and for kids,” he said. “I try to take some time in prayer or I try to take time to read a book that’s not related to medicine to rest my mind from any stress.” McGowen’s other interests include golf and music. He said he hopes to have more time for those again one day, but for now he is content with the joy he gets from his family and patients. “Patients are genuinely nice and brighten my day,” he said. “That can carry me through some stressful times.”

STOKESDALE town council

Feb. 8 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by STEVE MANN Mayor John Flynt called the monthly meeting to order at 7 p.m. Present were Mayor Pro Tem Thearon Hooks and council members Frank Bruno, Tim Jones and Bill Jones; Town Administrator/Finance Officer Kim Hemric; Deputy Clerk Alisa Houk; Budget Officer Philip Pulliam; Town Attorney John Bain; Town Planner Oliver Bass; and about 20 residents. Rev. Alan Mears of Bethel United Methodist Church gave the invocation, which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting agenda was approved 5-0.

 4  1 (with Tim Jones opposed)

to approve minutes of the Oct. 12 and Nov. 9 regular council meetings and the Oct. 4, Oct. 18, Oct. 25, Nov. 15 and Nov. 29 weekly Wednesday meetings, excepting minutes from the Nov. 15 and Nov. 29 closed sessions.

 3  0 to recuse Hooks and Flynt

from voting on approving minutes from the two closed sessions, since neither of them served on the council when the sessions were held.

 2  1 (with Tim Jones opposed) to approve minutes from closed sessions on Nov. 15 and Nov. 29. The council did not vote on releasing the

closed-session minutes to the public.

NEW BUSINESS Public Safety: District I Report. Master Corporal Nicholas Southern said in January the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office responded to 552 calls in District 1, 74 of which were in Stokesdale. Overall, crime in the district was down 55 percent from a year ago, Southern said.

Fire Department Report. Randy Southard, Stokesdale Fire Department’s deputy chief, reported the department had 36 fire-related calls in January and 49 EMS calls. The department has received 522 calls so far this fiscal year. Southard requested residents make their house numbers more visible to help emergency personnel. Signs can be purchased at various places, including through a program sponsored by the Ladies Auxiliary. For information, call (336) 643-0790.

Elevated TTHM Levels. Bill Merritt, president of Meritech Labs, the town’s licensed water operator, discussed the elevated annual average levels of total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) in Stokesdale’s water system in 2017 (for details, see story on front cover).

PUBLIC HEARING  4  1 (with Flynt opposed) to

approve Leonard Kerns’ request for a special-use permit to establish a landscape and horticultural business in an AG (agricultural) zoning district on a 4.3-acre section of about 9 acres he recently bought on Cogan Lane.

 James C. Burkhead and Robert Burkhead expressed concern about the environmental impact of a possible fuel leak, what they called “spot zoning” and the potential adverse effect of the business on adjoining property values.  Woody Burkhead said he was not notified of the original public hearing because his property is adjacent to the front portion of Kerns’ property, but the back portion is what is being developed. That’s a technicality that needs to be addressed for the future, he said.  Doris DiMaria expressed concern with the traffic, noise and damage from Kerns’ trucks on Prince Edward Road. DiMaria, Robert Burkhead and James Burkhead also said they felt the business wasn’t a “public necessity” as stipulated in the permit requirements.  During the council comment period, council member Bill Jones said claims that property values would be harmed and that Kerns’ business would not be in harmony with the area needed to be supported by an expert, such as a real estate appraiser.

Water Enterprise Update. Income for the water enterprise account as

Kerns also said he would maintain the private access road off Prince Edward Road.

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The public hearing for Kerns’ request was continued from the Jan. 11 meeting, and Kerns has since provided business plans to his neighbors, met with those who had concerns and walked his property with them.

General Fund Update. Pulliam reported total income through Jan. 30 was about $89,777 and expenses were about $131,565.

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Yates Construction was paid $18,878 in January for installing, reading and repairing water meters and 811 location requests.

Four people who had been sworn in for the quasi-judicial hearing in January spoke again in opposition.

Kerns had told the council and neighbors the area would be enclosed by a 5-foot retaining wall topped with vegetation and would not be visible to surrounding residents. He said sheds for storing his equipment will not be permanent and there will be storage containers and areas for mulch, compost and fuel, and trailers for pine needles and straw. Also, there will be no retail sales at the location.

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of Jan. 30 was about $286,627, with water sales making up $238,190 of that. Expenses were about $234,821; of this, about $109,054 was for water purchase.

Kerns agreed to: Have no more than 10 employees; limit the number of storage trailers to three; and restore the property to its original landscape if he vacated it.

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“I know there were some who don’t understand everything involved in these decisions, but I think we made the decision we had to make,” he said.

 5  0 to approve an updated fa-

cility use agreement for Town Hall and the town park. The council will decide on a case-by-case basis whether to waive fees for nonprofits that request a waiver but do not have a valid 501(c)(3) form.

P&R Request

 5  0 to approve a request by

Stokesdale Parks & Recreation to use the soccer fields from March 1 through

...continued on p. 8

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...continued from p. 6

NEXT MEETING May 20, at a new resident’s rate of $10/hour.

CDARS

 5  0 to transfer the town’s

CDs, as they mature, into CDARS, the Certificate Deposit of Account Registry Service, through the Bank of Oak Ridge.

Feasibility Study. Flynt said the Timmons Group, which is conducting the $175,000 feasibility study regarding a proposed regional water authority in northwest Guilford County, was scheduled to meet with the council Feb. 14 to discuss the town’s priorities for waterlines, with prioritization for the period of zero to five years.

Stokesdale has about $2.5 million in 15 CDs split among the general fund ($1,939,988.29), water enterprise fund ($243,085.58) and the watersewer fund ($314,163.97).

 5  0 to invite the public to attend the workshop.

Flynt said he was surprised to learn that withdrawing funds from CDARS can be done with only one signature from a municipality’s approved list with the bank. The council unanimously voted to require three signatures, those of the mayor, mayor pro tem and finance officer.

Office Hours. Tim Jones proposed the council reduce the hours Town Hall is open to the public. He suggested closing on Fridays, or possibly opening one hour later each day.

The feasibility study is expected to be completed next month.

Bruno said he had considered closing Town Hall at noon on Fridays or opening from 9 a.m. to noon three days a week.

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CONTACT YOUR TOWN (336) 643-4011 stokesdale@stokesdale.org www.stokesdale.org

 5  0 to approve Tim Jones’

“It’s a great idea to come up with a schedule that’s not going to hurt the town but lower our costs,” Bruno said. Hemric said staff hours have been reduced 150 hours a month since one of two deputy clerks resigned in October. Discussion was continued until the March 8 meeting.

Unauthorized Modifications. Two unauthorized structures built on the disc golf course behind Town Hall are possible hazards to the public and need to be removed, Tim Jones told fellow council members. Two timbers were used to create a retaining-wall structure on the first tee, and a footbridge almost 3 feet wide and 10 feet long was built across a rocky drainage area in the fairway on hole No. 3.

Protocol. After saying he was concerned the council may miss a document or a detail regarding the proposed regional water authority in northwest Guilford County, Tim Jones made a motion for Hemric to create a spreadsheet that includes meeting dates and locations, individuals representing Stokesdale, an index of all materials received and a record of votes made on behalf of Stokesdale,

FEB. 15 - 21, 2018

Hemric said no minutes or votes are taken at the meetings since they are for fact finding only, and the only materials handed out were agendas.

motion.

 5  0 to have the Property Committee get an estimate for removing one of the structures and arrange for the removal if the estimate falls within the committee’s monetary approval amount.

the estimated meeting length and the parties represented. He also asked that the information begin with the council’s vote on the Memorandum of Understanding on Jan. 4, 2017, or the first meeting Hemric attended.

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 5  0 to authorize Flynt and Bill

Jones to represent Stokesdale at the meetings, along with Hemric.

Water Technician Position. Council voted 5-0 to continue discussion of the part-time water technician’s duties until March. Tim Jones said the proposed job duties for the technician recently hired by Stokesdale duplicate many tasks that Yates Construction handles, was too broad in scope and made it seem like the town’s first step toward starting a public works department. Several council members said they didn’t want to take tasks away from Yates, which serves as the town’s utilities contractor. Hemric said she had talked to Gene Robertson of Yates and he supports the part-time position and sees it as supplementing what Yates does. Bill Jones said the town has been running a $5 million water system without a staff member coordinating things. He said about 400 homes will be built in the next four to five years, which would double the size of the town’s water system. “I’m not sure what point you’re trying to make,” he said to Tim Jones. “We just got two violations from the state. … You don’t think we need someone hands-on for the Town of Stokesdale?”

Planning Board Schedule. A discussion about whether one week between

the Planning Board and council meetings is enough time for staff to review documents or for someone to appeal a decision before it comes before council was continued until the March meeting.

Emergency Water Use Policy. Bill Jones proposed the town consider agreeing to provide water to Stokesdale Fire Department for firefighting and training, with the department agreeing to take customary steps to protect the water system from crosscontamination and maintain hydrants in the same manner it does now. He emphasized he is not suggesting the town bill the fire department for water used. Jones also suggested there be agreements with any fire department Stokesdale furnishes water to for emergency use and said he welcomed the fire department’s input. Dep. Chief Randy Southard said he believes Stokesdale Fire District’s board of directors and the fire department would be willing to discuss an agreement and Jones said he would talk to Chief Todd Gauldin.

Handheld Device

 5  0 to authorize Hemric to

purchase a second handheld electronic water meter reader for $952.21.

Adding Agenda Items. Council agreed to review Bruno’s research on other towns’ policies for adding meeting agenda items and discuss this at the March 8 meeting. Nametags

 4  1 (with Tim Jones opposed), to authorize Hemric to purchase nametags for council members at a cost of no more than $75. “No Trespassing” Signs

 4  1 (with Tim Jones opposed),

to purchase two “No Trespassing” signs and two signs indicating “No motorized vehicles except on paved areas,” at a cost of no more than $100

each, plus two poles for posting the signs on each side of the entrance at Town Hall. Tim Jones cautioned the council against causing a problem for those using the walking track after hours while trying to solve a problem with people who have criminal intent.

OLD BUSINESS Park Shelter. Discussion of a second shelter near the playground in the town park was continued. Insurance/Bonding

 5  0 to approve an annual

credit and criminal background check for any staff member who is bonded.

COMMITTEE/ADMIN REPORTS Property Committee. Bill Jones said he replaced several lights at the town park and changed the lithium batteries in the sinks. Administrative. Hemric said the average daily cost of the Town’s most recent water bill, which covered a 40day cycle instead of 31, was $557.09, slightly below the daily average of $558.56 this time last year. She suggested the council consider scheduling a budget workshop in March. Houk had helped prioritize the minutes the council approved, Hemric said, and the two had a combined 37 hours besides their regular 40-hour work weeks to get them done. Hemric said she had sent out notices to water customers about the elevated TTHM level less than a week after the town had been notified by the state and interpreted the low number of phone calls in response to the letter as a show of “trust the citizens have in council leadership and staff.” A public hearing about a change to Stokesdale’s development ordinance that would eliminate the requirement that minor subdivisions hook up to the

water system will be on the Planning Board’s April 5 meeting agenda.

ing if there is a vote on the issue it will be in March.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

 Bruno thanked the four citizens who stayed to the end of the four-hour meeting, noting what the council had discussed was important.

 Stephen Louie, chair of Stokesdale’s Planning Board, recommended the council appoint new members to the board from the list of current alternates and that those appointed should have the highest number of meetings attended. Louie said previous volunteers had served diligently as alternates but were passed over in board appointments and several resigned as a result. There are currently five, rather than seven, members on the board, with four alternates. Training is scheduled March 1.

COUNCIL COMMENTS  Tim Jones urged residents to contact Guilford County commissioners about returning the sales and use tax distribution money to Stokesdale, say-

 Bill Jones said a lot of people didn’t understand the council’s vote earlier in the meeting to approve the special use permit. “Unless you have a pretty good reason not to allow it, you’re almost obligated by law to allow it,” he said.  Hooks said he thought the council had accomplished a great deal during the meeting.  Flynt thanked the council members for showing respect to each other. “I think that’s healthy, and I’m sure the people in Stokesdale appreciate that,” he said. The meeting was adjourned at 11:07 p.m.

GUT CHECK:

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FEB. 15 - 21, 2018

MATHCOUNTS winners

Welcome to

A weekly section in the Northwest Observer focused on our local youth and the adults who positively impact them.

100th day of school Stokesdale Elementary teachers (L-R) “Granny” Lindsay Harrell, “Granny” Sally Wiener and “Granny” Rachel Francisco dress up for the 100th day of school. Photo courtesy of Lindsay Harrell

Photo courtesy of NWMS

A team of Northwest Middle School students placed ﬁrst in the annual MATHCOUNTS competition at A&T University on Feb. 10, where over 100 students from 13 schools in ﬁve counties competed in four rounds of math tests; the competition was sponsored by North Piedmont Chapter of Professional Engineers of North Carolina. The NWMS team will advance to the state competition in March. Shown in photo, L-R: Jeff Sasser (coach), NWMS students Garret Eichlin, Tristan Burd, Ella Reitmeier and Areen Dabadghav, and Sara Vaughn (coach).

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

High school sports notes by MARC PRUITT

NORTHWEST GUILFORD Zawadzki wins state diving title Noah Zawadzki won the NCHSAA 4-A state diving championship last Saturday at the Triangle Aquatic Center in Cary.

Zawadzki, a senior who will join the diving team at Virginia Tech, finished fourth in the state championships the last two seasons.

Following up his Midwest Regional win from the week before, Zawadzki amassed 577.65 points in the 1-meter springboard competition, easily outdistancing runnerup Walker Creedon of Cary Green Hope, who finished with 507.25.

Samantha Gillis finished sixth in the girls diving competition with 356.05 points, and Phoebe Martin posted two top-15 finishes in her events. Martin was 13th in the 500 freestyle and 15th in the 200 freestyle.

Five wrestlers headed to 4-A state tournament The Vikings’ wrestling team will send five members to the NCHSAA 4-A state tournament which begins this Thursday at the Greensboro Coliseum. Junior Chris Garrison (171 pounds) and senior George Cooke (182 pounds) both won their weight classes at last week’s Midwest 4-A Regional at Glenn High School.

FEB. 15 - 21, 2018

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Junior Finn Queen (145 pounds), junior Shane Chavis (120 pounds), and freshman Riley Edwards (106 pounds) all had runner-up finishes in their weight classes. The top four wrestlers from each weight class advanced to the state tournament.

...more SPORTS on p. 22

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THURSDAY, FEB. 15

 Lions Club | Oak Ridge Lions Club, which helps

people who are sight- or hearing-impaired, will meet Feb. 15, 6:30 p.m., at Bill’s Pizza, 1431 N.C. 68, Oak Ridge. For more info about the Lions Club: Danny Yanusz, (336) 643-6424.

SATURDAY, FEB. 17  “Mr. Northern” | Northern Guilford High School will

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host its annual “Mr. Northern” competition Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. at the high school, 7101 Spencer Dixon Road in Greensboro. At this competition male students come together in dance, talent and fashion to raise funds for their designated non-profit while competing for the “Mr. Northern” title. For more info about the event: (336) 314-2624 or debmcgee55@gmail.com.

TUESDAY, FEB. 20  Kiwanis Club | Kiwanis Club of Northwest Guilford

will meet Feb. 20, noon, at Bill’s Pizza, 1431 N.C. 68, Oak Ridge. For more info about the Kiwanis Club: Annette Joyce, (336) 382-8629.

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which is open to anyone with a desire to sing and share fellowship, continues to meet every Monday morning, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., at Gideon Grove United Methodist Church, 2865 Gideon Grove Church Road in Stokesdale. For more info about the choir, contact Sondra at (336) 453-8017 or skbeene@gmail.com.

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add your event Click and fill in your details

MARK YOUR CALENDARS  Founders’ Day | The annual Founders’ Day celebra-

tion in Summerfield, hosted by the Town of Summerfield, will take place Saturday, May 19, beginning with a parade along Summerfield Road at 10 a.m. followed by live music, kids’ activities, carnival rides, vendors and food trucks throughout the late morning and afternoon.  RidgeFest | The annual RidgeFest in Oak Ridge,

hosted by Merchants of Oak Ridge in partnership with the Town of Oak Ridge, will kick off on the evening of Thursday, May 31, with carnival rides and food trucks and continue on Friday, June 1, with live music, a cornhole tournament, carnival rides, food trucks and the second annual Glow Run. The fun will continue through the late afternoon and evening of Saturday, June 2, and culminate with a fireworks show just after dark. More details at www.merchantsofoakridge.com.

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Samuel K. Anders, CPA, MSA, PC 30 Years Experience

Individual, Corporate, Partnership & Payroll Tax Electronic Tax Filing  Estate Planning Bookkeeping & Compilations Oak Ridge Business Center 8004 Linville Rd, Suite G, Oak Ridge (336) 643-7577 or 1-800-467-8299 info@samanderscpa.com www.samanderscpa.com

Stock photo, Metro Creative

18 Construction-industry professionals take steps to combat labor shortage

Long-term strategies are being put into place to educate students and parents about the wide availability of opportunities

14 Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sold in your area

Business News

The Northwest Observer â&#x20AC;˘ Totally local since 1996

Real Estate Q & A FEB. 15 - 21, 2018

TRANSACTIONS The following are recent new and existing home sales for the northwest- and northern- Guilford County area. Home sales in and near your neighborhood impact the current market value of your home.

STOKESDALE

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7900 Gray Fox Road (Fox Glen) $375,000

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8900 Ellisboro Road $225,000

6702 Bugle Run (Bugle Run) $355,000

SUMMERFIELD

8510 Parkchester Place (Knights Landing) $512,000

6404 River Hills Drive (River Hills Plantation) $192,000

8404 Mears Fork Road (2.702 acres) $192,000

3305 Cheswick Court (Edinburgh) $245,500

3943 Lewiston Road $175,000

6012 Beckenham Way (Staffordshire Estates) $420,000

3601 Buffington Place (The Cardinal) $367,000

4503 Joseph Hoskins Road (Elmhurst Estates) $365,000

5918 Billet Road (Oak Ridge Plantation) $500,000

3712 Moss Creek Drive (Cardinal Manor) $180,000

5207 Torney Court (Highland Grove South) $290,000

6861 Matzinger Court (Riverside at Oak Ridge) $590,000

4407 Innisbrook Court (Prestwick) $350,000

BUSINESS NEWS

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*Pictures, photographs, drawings, features, colors, square footage and sizes are approximate for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability and amenities, are subject to change and prior sale at any time without notice or obligation. Event is subject to change or cancellation without notice.

7810 Front Nine Drive (Dawn Acres) $466,000

4948 US Hwy. 220 N. (1.324 acres) $155,000

Love Ava a ‘perfect fit’ Women’s boutique on Summerﬁeld Road will open March 5 SUMMERFIELD – Owner Tessa Clemencia describes Love Ava Boutique as a “trendy contemporary women’s clothing store, with an urban twist.” Clemencia said she envisioned the boutique for a while before taking steps to bring it to reality, and always had her heart set on Summerfield. “It (Summerfield) reminds me of my small hometown of Gretna, Virginia,” Clemencia said. With a desire to bring something

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new to the community, Clemencia said she felt a clothing store would be a perfect fit. Love Ava will carry everything from leggings and jeans to tops and dresses, as well as a few accessories. Services such as personal styling and after-hours shopping parties will also be offered. Love Ava will open its doors on Monday, March 5, at 10 a.m. and a grand opening celebration is set for Saturday, March 10, starting at 11 a.m. The boutique is located directly across the street from Summerfield Fire Station #9 on Summerfield Road. “Stop by, grab some coffee, shop, and chat,” Clemencia said.

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Jason Smith and Tonya Gilbert constantly have a finger on the pulse of new development and the future of northern and northwest Guilford County. “Nobody knows new construction out here better than we do,” Smith said. “If I were looking for a new home, I would call us, because I feel Tonya and I are the best resource

when it comes to market conditions, pricing, builder profiles and how to match the buyer up.” Smith elaborates on why that knowledge can be so important when building a new home. “When you are building a house it’s very important that the builder

...continued on next page

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...continued from previous page and the buyer coexist well. There are different types of buyers that work well with different types of builders, and we know them well enough to make those matches.” Local developers also like to work with Smith because of the knowledge he brings to any project.

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Linville Ridge, Bethel Ridge, Knights Landing – Oak Ridge Birkhaven – Summerfield Dawn Acres, NorthRidge, Charles Place – Stokesdale

“I appreciate working with Jason, because he has a good handle on the community and the market,” explains Craig Fleming, one of the developers for the North Ridge neighborhood in Stokesdale. “He’s always involved in several types of projects and that allows him to help buyers find just the right fit for them.” Jason and his mom, Betty Smith, formed Smith Marketing 15 years ago and have continued to work closely with the area’s premier home builders. Jason’s brother, Jeff, came on board in 2005 and four years later, the family-owned business teamed up with Allen Tate. Smith Marketing/Allen Tate has received the Triad Large Team Award for volume in sales and listings the last nine years. “Our philosophy is, ‘We sell the neighborhoods,’” Smith said. “Most of the

neighborhoods we represent in the northwest are very familyoriented, and the homebuyers are looking for a nice home with all of the amenities and a lot of open space. The north and northwest (area of the county) also do very well because of the schools, which is the number one reason people buy houses.” Over the years, Smith has received numerous real estate awards, served on the Greensboro Builders Association’s board of directors, chaired both the Parade of Homes and the Triad Sales and Marketing Council and volunteered for numerous professional organizations. Smith lives in Greensboro and has two children, ages 10 and 13. He enjoys spending time with his family, golfing and watching his kids play sports. The family attends Westover Church in Greensboro. Like Smith, Gilbert has a heart for new construction and the area’s local builders. “I’ve developed relationships with the area’s most outstanding builders. They care about what they do and they deliver high-quality results,” she said. “I want to continue to work with them and provide my

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Energy efficient, timeless design 29 years of hands-on experience Owner Scott Allred is a Greensboro native and multi-award-winning builder

Owners Don & Annette Mills

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• Residential and commercial • On-site owner supervision Mike (336) 362-4462 Casey (336) 706-1887 clients with well-built, beautiful homes.” Gilbert is a native of the Triad and calls Greensboro home. A graduate of East Carolina University with a B.S. in business, she has been in the real estate industry since 1991 and received her Certified New Home Sales Professional (CSP) educational designation. She is a member of the Greensboro Builders Association and its Triad Sales and Marketing Council. In her free time, Gilbert enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends. Smith and Gilbert have four new developments in the works that will have

lots available for sale this spring: Woodrose in northwest Greensboro near Bur-Mil Park; Charles Place in Stokesdale, across the street from Arbor Run; Bethel Ridge in Stokesdale, off of Haw River Road; and Lennox Woods in northern Guilford County. The newest neighborhoods Smith and Gilbert will be marketing this spring are in addition to the existing neighborhoods they represent, which include Birkhaven, Linville Ridge, Dawn Acres, Knights Landing and North Ridge. Smith may be reached at (336) 451-4921 or Jason.Smith@allentate.com. Gilbert may be reached at (336) 215-7138 or Tonya.Gilbert@allentate.com.

Custom design, Timeless strength. Brian Disney Homes has established a reputation of excellence in the craftsmanship of custom residential homes since 2006. Find out more at briandisneyhomes.com. briandisneyhomes@gmail.com

Construction-industry professionals take steps to combat labor shortage Long-term strategies are being put into place to educate students and parents about the wide availability of opportunities by PATTI STOKES

based in Oak Ridge. “We’ve really started to feel it in the last six months, since summer ended. Now that the economy has recovered and the building industry is gaining momentum in this area, so many of the subcontractors who thinned down to survive are getting called by so many different builders. It’s harder and harder to get a plumber, heating and air guys, and electricians when you want them.

GUILFORD COUNTY – With the economy in full roar, the demand for new construction is high. That’s a great thing, but those in the construction industry are finding themselves in a bit of a quandary: there aren’t enough skilled laborers to keep up with that demand.

“The truth of it is, there are not that many new trade contractors coming into the area,” Disney said.

“It is certainly an issue that has come full circle,” said Mark Disney, who along with his parents, Frances and Patty Disney, operates Disney Custom Homes

“I came on the job with just some basic skills my dad had taught me,” Mills said. “After two years with a contractor I was running a crew and was basically

Don Mills, owner of Don Mills Builders, went to work as a carpenter after working in the coal mines of West Virginia.

Stock photo, Metro Creative

Local construction-industry professionals say the supply of skilled labor is not keeping pace with the demand for new construction. getting paid to learn.” Mills, who is currently building new homes in several northwest Guilford County communities, said when he started his building business in 1988, entering the construction business on the

ground floor was considered an attractive opportunity. “Then we had a few years where we had a lot of subs and not that much work. Now the opportunity is back – there is a lot of work, but very little labor,”

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Mills said. “Kids coming out of high school want to go right into four years of college. If they were to put four years into a trade, in five or six years they could run their own company. The opportunity is there, just waiting for them.” The shortage of skilled laborers is delaying the completion of local builders’ new home projects by as much as two or more months, Mills and Disney said. “What used to take about 4 ½ to 5 ½ months to finish a 3,500-squarefoot house might now take 30 to 60 days longer,” Disney said. “And we’re working with trade contractors who we’ve had relationships with for 20-plus years – they are doing the best they can.” “When you’re scheduling a house, if your customer makes any changes that causes you to bump them back, those changes might set you back two weeks, because they (the subcontractors) have someone else waiting on them and they’ll go start that job and finish it before they come back to do yours,” Mills added. Disney currently serves as president of Greensboro Builders Association. He said the association spent much of last year conducting research and meeting with local educational departments. Armed with a lot of valuable information, this year a main area of focus for the GBA is to promote an interest in construction careers. Events such as one coming up on March 13, hosted by Junior Achievement, are exactly what the GBA hopes to become more involved in. The construction academy will be held at the Greensboro Coliseum’s Swarm Fieldhouse and be open to 500 eighth graders from eight Guilford County schools. GBA is an industry sponsor of the event, and is encouraging its members to get involved, offer an interactive display and talk with kids about their role in the industry. “The biggest struggle we have to overcome is getting youth interested again – so many of the guidance coun-

selors and parents push for kids to go to a four-year university and anything less than that is a disappointment,” Disney said. “The reality is, not everyone is cut out for a four-year school.” Cheryl Collins, GBA’s executive director, agrees, and adds that it doesn’t have to be an either/or. “In many ways it’s a cultural shift to promote a career in construction versus going to college right out of high school,” Collins said. “We’ve got to figure out how to get kids to see what opportunities there are. And, learning a trade could possibly be a stepping stone and help someone develop a skill that they can take with them, even if they do go on to a four-year college. “A lot of it is building awareness,” Collins continued. “Not only to the students, but to the parents to see career opportunities they might not have thought about. There might be a different path they had not considered. That can include higher education, but it doesn’t have to start there.” Collins, Mills and Disney note that the benefits of a career in construction are many, including learning valuable skills, entering the field at a decent salary and being paid to learn – and, all without racking up college debt. And, if you’re willing to work hard and interested in starting your own business, that’s doable within five to six years.

In the meantime, GBA will continue to set its sights on leveraging partnerships with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Junior Achievement, Weaver Academy, GTCC, Guilford County Schools, and Guilford County Workforce Development Board. “We’re very interested in figuring out how to have the biggest impact,” Disney said. “The labor shortage is a problem that is not going to be fixed overnight. The workforce is going to come from the youth. It’s going to take several years to get that ship headed in the right direction, but we want to take steps now.”

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FEB. 15 - 21, 2018

NEWS in brief

REAL ESTATE Q & A

Nuisance ordinance awaits new attorney’s review STOKESDALE – The nuisance ordinance Stokesdale’s Ordinance Review Committee worked on for the better part of eight months last year awaits a review by the new town attorney before further action is taken. For that to happen, however, the Stokesdale Town Council would have to approve the money for John Bain, the new attorney, to review the document and the town’s nuisance ordinance that is currently in force. Jim Greene, the committee’s chairman, has asked that the item be placed on

the agenda for the regular monthly town council meeting March 8. During its Jan. 16 meeting, the ORC unanimously agreed to disregard former town attorney Katy Gregg’s analysis of the committee’s changes. It also voted 6-1, with Jimmy Landreth voting nay, to send Ordinance 67 and the committee’s revision of Gregg’s rewrite to Bain. Landreth said he thought the attorney should just review Ordinance 67 “to see what we’re dealing with.”

NCDOT launches annual survey RALEIGH – N.C. Department of Transportation has launched its third annual customer survey to gauge how the department is doing with regard to providing optimal customer service. Randomly selected citizens will receive a paper copy in the mail, but citizens can also participate online. The survey takes about 15 minutes to complete and the link is mobile-friendly. Participation can help NCDOT identify ways to make North

Carolina transportation services safer, more efficient and customer-focused. The N.C. General Assembly requires the survey and the results will be used to measure NCDOT’s customer service performance across the department. Survey responses must be received by March 31. The results will be available to the public on NCDOT.gov later in the summer.

What are the plans for the property that has been timbered at the corner of N.C. 68 and Peeples Road, directly across the street from GTCC’s Cameron Campus?

“But we have not received any rezoning application, subdivision plat or anything else that would lead to a change in use,” Lowe said.

A minor subdivision (up to four lots) can also be placed on AG property, which could allow single-family homes, duplexes and manufactured homes on large lots. Major residential subdivisions (five or more lots) or broad commercial uses such as offices and retail would require the developer to submit an application to rezone the property accordingly. In that case, the applicant’s rezoning request would go before the nine-member Guilford County Planning Board and must receive 71.4 percent of the board’s vote to be approved; if the vote to approve the request is less than 71.4 percent of the board’s voting members present, the application would then be reviewed and voted upon by the Guilford County commissioners.

The property you’re asking about consists of two adjacent parcels, the 17.65-acre parcel that has been timbered and an adjoining 33.23-acre parcel that East Wind also owns. Both parcels are zoned AG, which allows property to be used for agricultural purposes including crop, livestock and nursery

Once a rezoning application has been approved, a major subdivision or site plan must be submitted to the county’s Technical Review Committee, which is made up of Planning and Development staff and other representatives from the fire marshal’s office and NC Department of Transportation.

As of Feb. 14, when we last checked with the Guilford County Planning Department, the property owner on record, East Wind Development Company based in Greensboro, still has not submitted a development plan for the property. East Wind did receive a grading permit in October which allowed for the timbering you’ve noticed, Paul Lowe with the county’s planning department has confirmed.

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production, and animal services. A church may also be placed on AG-zoned property as well as very limited commercial operations such as a golf course.

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5402 Westfield Drive

5805 Mashoes Court

5260 Bunch Road

Summerfield $1,194,000 MLS 854551 Nancy Hess 336-215-1820

Stokesdale $849,000 MLS 726218 Mark Yost 336-707-6275

0 Friddle

6306 Poplar Forest Drive

6978 Toscana Trace

7900 Hoskins Ridge Drive The Wall Place $699,000 MLS 845030 Nancy Hess 336-215-1820

3905 Eagle Downs Way

Summerfield $680,000 MLS 858099 Jacob Letterman 336-338-0136 Johnnye Letterman 336-601-6012

Carlson Farms $1,795,000 MLS 853027 Nancy Hess 336-215-1820

Henson Farms $1,495,000 MLS 798373 Kay Chesnutt 336-202-9687

6904 Matzinger Court

5900 Henson Farm Road Henson Farms $700,000 MLS 818845 Nancy Hess 336-215-1820

The Vineyards at Summerfield $699,600 MLS 825545 Nancy Hess 336-215-1820

5603 Feather Court

7871 Bufflehead Court

Riverside At Oak Ridge $709,900 MLS 853490 Melissa Greer 336-337-5233 Nancy Hess 336-215-1820

Eagle Ridge $665,000 MLS 853026 Nancy Hess 336-215-1820 Jacob Letterman 336-338-0136

8107 Rogers Court

Jessup Ridge $524,900 MLS 840884 Michelle Porter 336-207-0515

7808 Frone Nine Drive

BHHSYostandLittle.com/MLS

Henson Forest $799,000 MLS 772996 Michelle Porter 336-207-0515

Triple Lakes $637,000 MLS 861319 Nancy Hess 336-215-1820

7203 Henson Farm Way

Henson Farms $600,000 MLS 830966 Joe Tomlinson 336-362-9336 Vincent Roccapriore 336-268-5230

7337 Henson Forest Drive

7905 Winterourne Drive

8306 Linville Oaks

6094 Brush Arbor Court Ridgewood $489,900 MLS 859531 Melissa Greer 336-337-5233

7805 Charles Place

Arbor Run $489,900 MLS 856841 Jamie Harrelson 336-889-9192

5812 Crutchfield Farm Road

466 Mashie Drive

779 Kallam Mill Road

4026 Windspray Loop

Linville Oaks $515,000 MLS 850296 Chandra Tippett 336-749-7977

Armfield $575,000 MLS 857231 Nancy Hess 336-215-1820

Keston Downes $537,000 MLS 870232 Nancy Hess 336-215-1820

Crutchfield Farms $479,000 MLS 854845 Nancy Hess 336-215-1820

Lot 113 Brassie Lane

Dawn Acres $460,000 MLS 861164 Waban Carter 336-601-6363

Greensboro National Golf Club $419,900 MLS 850542 Jaree Todd 336-601-4892

Madison $389,000 MLS 870867 Ashley Meredith 336-202-4964

Crosscreek $259,900 MLS 807804 Deryle Peaslee-Wood 336-601-4765

Greensboro National Golf Club $99,900 MLS 852700 Jacob Letterman 336-338-0136 Johnnye Letterman 336-601-6012

Lot 7 Lake Meadows

Lot 6 Lake Meadows

5803 Crutchfield Farm

Lot 5 Lake Meadows

Lot 1 Lake Meadows

Waters Edge $87,900 MLS 724063 Mark Yost 336-707-6275

Waters Edge $84,900 MLS 724057 Mark Yost 336-707-6275

Adams Farm 336—854—1333

•

Oak Ridge $61,500 MLS 858023 Susanne McIntire 336-601-5929

Elm Street 336—272—0151 •

Waters Edge $57,900 MLS 724052 Mark Yost 336-707-6275

Friendly Center 336—370—4000 •

Waters Edge $23,900 MLS 723801 Mark Yost 336-707-6275

Kernersville 336—996—4256

©2018 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

...continued from p. 10

Hayes has three top-10 finishes at track championships D’Andre Hayes posted a runner-up finish and two other top-10 finishes in last Saturday’s NCHSAA 4-A indoor track state championship meet at JDL Fast Track in Winston-Salem. Hayes finished second in the 55 hurdles in 7.49 seconds, getting nipped at the finish line by Joshua Brockman (7.48) of Charlotte Ardrey Kell.

Hayes went on to finish seventh in the high jump (6 feet) and 10th in the long jump (20 feet, 11.5 inches). He also finished 11th in the triple jump at 41 feet, 7.5 inches. Teammate Nicholas Stone finished 10th in the long jump with a leap of 19 feet, 7 inches. Naudia Thompson placed ninth in the pole vault by clearing 9 feet.

Boys, girls basketball teams regular season champions The Vikings’ boys and girls basketball teams both secured regular season championships in the Metro 4-A division after winning their games against Grimsley last Friday. The girls, the defending 4-A state champions, finished the regular season with a 22-2 record and breezed through conference play with an unblemished 8-0 record, averaging 63 points per game and allowing an average of just 34 points. In 13 straight wins, they defeated

every North Carolina team this season. The boys team downed Grimsley 70-63 to end the regular season 12-11 overall and 7-1 in conference play, their lone blemish coming against Ragsdale on Jan. 12. The Vikings also lost to Ragsdale in the HAECO Invitational on Dec. 27 before beating the Tigers on Feb. 2. Conference tournaments started Monday and the NCHSAA 4-A state tournament starts next week.

NORTHERN GUILFORD Forst captures two titles, record times at 3-A state meet Preston Forst won the 200 freestyle and swam a leg on the winning 200 medley relay team at last week’s NCHSAA 3-A state championships. Forst smashed the meet record in the 200

freestyle by more than two seconds to win his individual title before swimming the first leg of the 200 medley relay that broke its own record from last year by finishing in 1:38.86.

Forst was joined by Jeremy Lalumondier, Jonathan Wachendorfer and Bryan Hill on the record-setting relay team.

new state record.

Forst won the 200 free while breaking the previous mark by more than two seconds.

Other notable finishes were: Gareth Williams (fourth) and Bradley Gentry (sixth) for boys diving; Kyndall Bean (seventh) in the 200 freestyle; and the boys 200 freestyle relay team of Forst, Jonathan Layton, Ben Snider and Wachendorfer (third).

He also had a runner-up finish in the 100 backstroke, losing out to Western Alamance’s Noah Henderson, who set a

The boys team finished fifth with 178.5 points; the girls finished seventh with 94.5.

Melville wins 3200 indoor state title Senior David Melville won the NCHSAA 3-A indoor state championship in the 3200 last Saturday at JDL Fast Track in Winston-Salem. Melville, who finished a disappointing ninth earlier in the meet in the 1600, won by more than four seconds against runnerup Laderique McNeill of Harnett Central. In the girls meet, Alyson Davis was a runner-up in the 55-meter dash after finishing in 7.16 seconds. Parkland’s Del’Nique Penn won the event in 7.13.

Davis was also on the 4x200 relay team that finished third along with Meagan Wilkins, Amaya English and Miracle Scott. English also notched a sixth-place finish in the 55 hurdles. Olivia Bene (eighth) and Emma Fredericks (14th) posted top 15 finishes in the 1000 meters, and Fredericks, Bene, Katie Howell and Marissa Lenze took fourth place in the 4x800 relay. The girls team finished seventh with 23 points; the boys finished 21st with 10 points.

Boys, girls basketball teams regular season champions The Northern girls and boys basketball teams wrapped up the regular season conference championships in the Mid-State 3-A with their wins last Friday against Western Alamance. The girls capped their perfect conference season (14-0) with a 77-45 win to improve to 19-4 overall. After starting the season 1-3, the Nighthawks have

won 18 of their last 19 games, including 10 straight. The boys won 10 of their last 11 games and finished 18-5 overall and 12-2 in conference play, finishing one game ahead of Person and Eastern Alamance. Conference tournaments started on Monday and the NCHSAA 3-A state tournament will begin next week.

FEB. 15 - 21, 2018

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Student profiles brought to you this week by:

Hiding your smile? We can help! Matthew J. Olmsted, DDS MS Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center 2205 Oak Ridge Road, Suite CC (336) 441-7007

olmstedorthodontics.com

STUDENT PROFILES Thanks to the coaches and teachers at Northern and Northwest High Schools for their student recommendations and input, which make it possible to recognize these talented, dedicated students for their accomplishments in academics, athletics and cultural arts.

NORTHERN GUILFORD Dakari Mitchell, basketball by MARC PRUITT After spending the last two seasons as backup point guard, Dakari Mitchell knew his senior season would require him to play a larger role. Mitchell took the reins as the Nighthawks’ facilitator on offense this season after the graduation of Jarrett Boyd, from whom he had been learning since

he made the varsity team as a sophomore. “Jarrett taught me a lot about the position and what was expected of me,” Mitchell said. “He would always tell me to be patient when I ran the offense and to play within the system and within myself.” Mitchell’s play led Northern to an 18-5 overall (12-2 in conference play) record during the regular season and the Mid-State 3-A conference title. He has averaged seven points per game and led the team in assists per game (3.4) and steals per game (1.9). “I knew this season the coaches expected me to do more,” Mitchell said. “I worked out a lot with my dad over the summer in the weight room and doing drills to get ready. I worked a lot on my

Over 250 children in Guilford County will go to court alone Become a Guardian Ad Litem and advocate for an abused or neglected child

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scoring and coming off screens so I was prepared.” Mitchell saw his playtime increase last season after Andy Pack went down with a knee injury in the second round of the state playoffs. “I played a lot more in the playoffs after Andy got hurt,” Mitchell said. “That also kind of helped me get ready to take on a larger role this season. I knew I would be ready for it.” Mitchell is one of the team captains this season, an honor he does not take lightly. “That means my teammates and coaches trust me,” he said. “It’s a big role for anybody to take on. My job is to make sure we are all playing together.” Besides playing on the basketball team, Mitchell is in National Honor Society, Beta Club and Fellowship of

Christian Athletes. UNC Charlotte is his likely college destination and he wants to become a biomedical engineer or a physical therapist. “Northern gave me a great opportunity when I got here,” Mitchell said. “I’ve loved every minute of playing here.”

On a side note, we asked Dakari Mitchell these three questions ... Q: What three people, living or dead, would you invite to dinner? A: “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Michael Jordan and Barack Obama” Q: What’s the best book you’ve read? A: “‘Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief’ by Rick Riordan” Q: Who’s the best teacher you’ve had? A: “Mr. Jay Simpson (AP Human Geography)”

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

FEB. 15 - 21, 2018

Wondering what the perfect gift is for your Valentine?

GRINS and GRIPES Delighted or dismayed by something in your community? Share your thoughts in online: nwobserver.com

40 words or less

e-mail: grinsandgripes@nwobserver.com

Grins & Gripes are published based on available space and editor’s discretion.

336.447.7550 bestoralsurgery.com

Dental implants can make a smile heavenly.

GRINS to...  The employees of Bank of Oak Ridge for their ongoing support of Northwest Guilford Area Backpack Ministry. Their partnership is helping us reduce childhood hunger in our local area!  Lowes Foods and their amazing beer den. It is super fun to try new beers, catch up with friends, and people watch the grocery shoppers.  Summerfield resident Michael Page, who not only serves his community as a volunteer firefighter but also takes the time and effort to help his neighbors clear snow from driveways. Michael, your cheery helpfulness is never undervalued or underappreciated.

GRIPES to...

 Tailgaters. I drive the speed limit on N.C. 68. Riding on my tail will not make me go faster!  Those who first shafted us with a fake tax cut for the middle class and now try to cover up their conspiracy with the Russians by attacking the FBI and trying to discredit the independent counsel’s investigation. Worse than Watergate.  Gail Dunham for her confrontational approach in Summerfield. Your bully tactics are unbecoming as mayor. You can do better.  The developer of lots on Oak Ridge Road near Birkhaven who continues to halt traffic while trucks back in and

FEB. 15 - 21, 2018

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

out and cover the road with mud and debris. Tree limbs and chunks of mud for a mile, not cool.  Gas stations in Stokesdale that charge 10 cents more for a gallon of gas than the Shell station in Oak Ridge.  President Trump, the only person in Washington who denies Russia’s meddling in our elections. By blocking the investigations by Robert Mueller, he is betraying his oath to defend the Constitution. This is a traitorous betrayal of America.  Stokesdale. Please explain why the water we are paying for has the same contaminants (TTHM) as Flint, Michigan, and we shouldn’t be concerned? 120 days, valued customer? Really! Chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane and bromoform. Get used to these words. Editor’s Note: The reader is referring to a letter and public notice sent Friday, Feb. 2, by Stokesdale to its water system customers informing them the annual average level of total trihalomethanes (TTHM) in 2017 exceeded U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards for drinking water. The EPA limits the total concentration of the four chief constituents – chloroform, bromoform, bromodichloromethane and dibromochloromethane – to 0.08 milligrams per liter, or 80 parts per billion, in treated water. Stokesdale’s average was 0.082. The tests are taken quarterly.

...more GRINS & GRIPES on p. 26

Dentistry is not expensive, neglect is.

...continued from p. 24

District 1 Sheriff’s Office

The THMs are produced as disinfectant by-products and can cause a potential risk of cancer, according to the EPA.

has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest Guilford County ...

The District 1 office, one of three district offices in Guilford County, encompasses Oak Ridge, Summerfield, Stokesdale, Colfax and northwest and northern Greensboro. It is bounded by Rockingham County on the north, runs east along U.S. 29 South, west along Forsyth County and south along the Greensboro city limits. ROBBERY

Feb. 8 | A known suspect was reported to have taken property from a convenience store on Haw River Road in Oak Ridge while using bodily force at about 11:57 a.m. on Feb. 8. The estimated loss is $3.38. An arrest was made in the incident.

FRAUD

Keep your whole family’s smiles glowing with

GRINS & GRIPES

CRIME / INCIDENT report

Feb. 7 | A resident of Broomfield Road in Oak Ridge reported that he received a phone call on Feb. 6 from a person who identified himself as being a representative of the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office. The male suspect said he was “Deputy Richardson” and requested the resident pay a $500 bond because he had missed his court date. The alleged victim, age 66, used a pre-paid money card to comply with the suspect’s request.

Meritech Labs, the Town’s licensed water-system operator, and the North Carolina Rural Water Association are exploring solutions and are expected to correct the problem within 120 days, according to the letter. It was not considered an emergency, the letter said.

ing to an incident report. They were advised on the process of obtaining a criminal summons.

 Summerfield Mayor Gail Dunham for wasting $1,248.87 of taxpayer money because you did not get your way.

DRUGS

Feb. 10 | A known offender was allegedly found to be in possession of marijuana during a traffic stop on N.C. 68 North in Oak Ridge. The offender was cited and released for possession of marijuana up to 0.5 ounces and having an expired registration.

 Republic Services for making customers in Summerfield haul their trash cans to the street on two separate days during recycle weeks. Summerfield needs to “dump” Republic.

Check all your beneficiary designations. Don’t let your 401(K) go to your estate or your life insurance to your first wife.

ASSAULT

Feb. 11 | Two men reported they were victims of an assault during a road rage incident in the 7800 block of N.C. 68 near Stokesdale. Both parties reported they were physically assaulted by the other during the incident. Both individuals had apparent minor injuries and refused medical attention, accord-

Dr. Beth Borden (336) 644-2770

1009 Hwy 150W, Summerfield

District 1 Sheriff’s Office

7506 Summerfield Road Main number: (336) 641-2300 For non-emergency crime-related incidents, call: (336) 373-2222 • 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., M-F www.guilfordcountysheriff.com

FEB. 15 - 21, 2018

(336) 298-7196 Estate Planning

Estate Settlement

8004 Linville Road

Trust Beneficiary Suite A-1, Oak Ridge Representation

THE LAW OFFICE OF

SUSAN P. GREESON, P.L.L.C.

Learn more at greesonlegal.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Susan P. Greeson p.l.l.c.

Place online at

DEADLINE: Monday prior to each issue

NEED HELP? Call (336) 644-7035 ext. 10 Mon - Fri • 9am -2pm

INDEX Auto Sales & Service .................. 27 Employment ............................... 27 Save The Date ............................ 27 Home Services ....................... 27-29 Misc. Services.............................. 29 Misc. For Sale ............................. 29 Misc. Wanted .............................. 29 Pets & Animal Services ........... 29-30 Real Estate ................................. 30

 AUTO SALES & SERVICE

 SAVE THE DATE

 HOME SERVICES

EUROPEAN AUTO SERVICE & REPAIR We specialize in factory-scheduled maintenance and repairs. Mercedes, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Volvo, Mini, Porsche, and Lexus. 32 years experience. Knight Import Specialty Service, 4559 US Highway 220, Summerﬁeld (across from Food Lion). (336) 337-0669.

KIDS CONSIGNMENT SALE, Friday, Feb. 23, 9am-8pm; Saturday, Feb. 24, 8am-1pm (some items 50% oﬀ on Sat.), St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 2715 Horse Pen CreekRoad, GSO, www.stpaulskidssale.com.

CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING

 EMPLOYMENT

Something

BOOKKEEPER. Looking for a high-character, goal-oriented individual who works well within a team concept. A multi-tasker with attention to detail; excellent organization and communication skills are a must. Ideal candidate will have five years’ experience in Bookkeeping, QuickBooks & MS Office. Associate’s degree in accounting, business administration or related field preferred. Please send resume and cover letter along with salary requirements to scopetech06@gmail.com. Wanted: PIANIST/CHOIR DIRECTOR for $125 per week. Browns Summit UMC, 4426 Hwy 150 East, Browns Summit, NC. Inquire: huneycuttdavid@att.net. Outstanding CNAs & NURSES needed FT and PT. Countryside Manor. Apply in person, 7700 U.S. Hwy. 158, Stokesdale. (336) 643-6301. EXPERIENCED SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC in Oak Ridge, North Carolina. Contact Tom at (336) 202-3256.

HIRING? We can help! www.nwobserver.com.

 SAVE THE DATE “EASY TECHNIQUES TO BOOST YOUR MEMORY POWER” Join us for a free workshop on how you can improve your memory. Thursday, February 22, at 6pm, Countryside Village, 7700 U.S. Hwy 158, Stokesdale. Please RSVP to (336) 6436301 by Tuesday, February 20.

ENCORE KIDS CONSIGNMENT Check out our spring & summer items, premiering Thur., March 1, 305 W. Mountain Street, Kernersville, (336) 993-3444.

going on

Tell northwest Guilford County Place your Save the Date online at

Gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. www.windowcleaningnc.com. (336) 595-2873. MAIDS OF HONOR HOME CLEANING $25 oﬀ! Locally owned, bonded staﬀ. 40 years in service. BBB A+ rating. (336) 708-2407.

DECORATING EXPERIENCED INTERIOR DECORATOR & personal furniture shopper will help you with style, color, shopping & furniture placement. E-mail appeninc@gmail.com or call Ann Appenzeller, (336) 314-1411.

ELECTRICAL BALEX ELECTRICAL COMPANY, LLC Got Power? Residential, commercial and solar electrical services. (336) 298-4192.

 HOME SERVICES CLEANING CastleWorks WINDOW CLEANING Includes gutters, pressure washing, chandeliers and other high ladder work. Fully insured and bonded, free estimates. (336) 609-0677. www.castleworkswindowcleaning.com.

FLOORING Are you looking for a reliable and experienced FLOORING INSTALLER? I have over eight years experience with laminate, luxury vinyl plank, base and shoe moulding. Give me a call for a free estimate. Call (336) 643-1097 and ask for Stephen. It’s A CARPET thing! Repairs, restretch,

MAID-2-SHINE. Excellent service, 15 years exp. Free estimates, excellent references. (336) 338-0223.

replace. (336) 643-6500.

HOME CLEANING. Aﬀord. rates, ref. avail., 10 years exp. Elizabeth, (336) 453-8592.

FRONING’S FIX IT home repair, handy-

THE CLEANING TECHNICIAN INC. Winter’s here, kids are inside; let us lighten your load w/ a detailed cleaning to help your day. Licensed, bonded & insured. Call Lisa, (336) 207-0770.

rates. Text or call Dan, (336) 317-3506.

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES man services, and exterior pressure cleaning. Insured and bonded. Competitive

SMALL ENGINE & MOWER repair/welding. Pickup & delivery. (336) 880-7498. MOBILE SMALL ENGINE MOWER and trailer service and repair. (336) 501-8681. APPLIANCE REPAIR – Call Mr. Appliance.

11,400 copies directly mailed every week, and 1,900 copies available for pick-up at 70+ area businesses.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

A step above the rest! (336) 609-5707.

... continued on p. 28

FEB. 15 - 21, 2018

 HOME SERVICES

L & T SMALL ENGINE SERVICE “We get you mowing!” Commercial, residential, all models. 2103 Oak Ridge Road, Oak Ridge. (336) 298-4314.

ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULING Excavating, land clearing, demolition, dirt available. Zane Anthony, (336) 362-4035.

MASONRY How about a new patio or ﬁre pit? We can

Residential & Commercial

LAWN CARE / LANDSCAPING

help with all of your outdoor living and en-

David & Judy Long, owners

GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maint. (336) 655-6490.

sidewalks, patios and more! Give us a call

OLD SCHOOL HOME REPAIR/ IMPROVEMENT

“No Job Too Small”

Jerry & Lisa Potkay, Owners • Oak Ridge, NC Accredited A+ Rating, BBB of Central NC

(336) 669-7252 oldschoolsjhr@triad.rr.com

RECEIVE 10% off

Any Home Interior Repair or Improvement booked in Jan/Feb 2018

GREENERTIMES SMALL ENGINE Sales & Service Center. All types sold and repaired; comm./res. 9428 NC Hwy. 65, Stokesdale. (336) 548-9286 or (336) 312-3844. LATHAMS CUSTOM FENCE. Residential, commercial, & farm. Free estimates. Keith Armﬁeld (336) 944-7837. Good fences make great neighbors! GARY’S HANDYMAN HOME SERVICES “Providing value for the home-ownership experience.” Gary Gellert, serving NC’s Piedmont Triad area. Garygellert@gmail.com, (336) 423-8223.

GRADING / HAULING BRAD’S BOBCAT & HAULING SVCS. LLC Debris removal, grading, gravel/dirt, driveways, concrete work. (336) 362-3647. PEARMAN QUARRY HAULING Fill dirt, gravel, sand rock, mulch & more. Joel Richardson, (336) 803-2195. GAULDIN TRUCKING, grading & hauling, bobcat work, lot clearing, driveways, ﬁll dirt, gravel, etc. (336) 362-1150. TRACTOR FOR HIRE – Bush hogging, grading, brush/tree removal. (336) 207-6632 E&W HAULING & GRADING INC. Driveways, ﬁll dirt, topsoil, lot clearing, bobcat work, excavating, mulch, etc. (336) 451-1282.

FEB. 15 - 21, 2018

WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Lawn maint., landscaping, irrigation/landscape contractor. Hardscaping & landscape lighting. 26 yrs exp. (336) 399-7764. CAROLINA STUMP & TREE SERVICE Complete tree service, $1 million liability, workman’s comp. Rick & Judy, (336) 643-9332, carolinaStumpAndTreeServices.com. ALL-SEASON STUMP GRINDING. Owner Alan Winfree. Free est. Call (336) 382-9875. AREA STUMP DUMP. Yard waste, con-

 HOME SERVICES

SOUTHERN STYLE concrete & landscapes.

tertainment spaces! Fire pits, driveways & at (336) 399-6619 for all your concrete and landscape needs. Your business should be here! Call (336) 644-7035, ext. 10, to place your classiﬁed ad. MASONRY

CONCEPTS,

brick,

block,

stone, concrete & repairs. Free est. (336) 988-1022,www.masonryconceptsgso.com.

MISC. SERVICES & PRODUCTS. GAS LOGS, WOOD STOVES & INSERTS Fireplaces, sold, serviced and repaired. Call Don Hill, (336) 643-7183.

crete, etc. Fill dirt avail. (336) 602-5820. ORTIZ LANDSCAPING, complete lawn care. Trimming, cleaning, planting & mulch, gutter cleaning, patios & pavers, waterfalls, retaining walls, sidewalks, stonework. Residential and commercial. (336) 280-8981.

www.nwobserver.com BRAD’S BOBCAT. Mulch, landscaping, pine needles and straw. (336) 362-3647. STEVE NEWMAN TREE SERVICE. Free est. Lic/Ins. 30 yrs. exp. Bucket truck & chipper, total cleanup. Selective thinning & lot clearing. 24-hr. emer. svc. OR, NC. (336) 643-1119. ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup, shrub and tree pruning. Bobcat work and more. Free estimates. Licensed & insured. Call Joe at (336) 643-9157. FAY’S LAWNCARE & LANDSCAPING Spring prep & tree work. Complete landscape maint. & hardscaping Reasonable and honest. Call Taylor, (336) 458-6491.

Get. Be. Stay. Connected.

facebook.com/NorthwestObserver

PAINTING & DRYWALL

BEK Paint Co. (336) 931-0600

BEKPaintCompany.com • References Available • Licensed & Insured • All Work Guaranteed

CARLOS & SON PAINTING, interior & exterior. Free est., lic./ins. (336) 669-5210. STILL PERFECTION PAINTING Reliable, skilled, aﬀordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, (336) 462-3683, stillperfectionpainting.com.

PLUMBING BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed. Lic. & insured. Call Mark, (336) 337-7924. WEBSTER & SONS PLUMBING, Inc. (336) 992-2503. Licensed, insured, bonded. 24/7 service. Plumbing, drain cleaning, well pumps. Give us a call, we do it all! Go to www.webstersplumbing.com for more info.

PRESSURE WASHING PRESSURE WASHING, gutter & window cleaning. Fully insured. Crystal Clear, www. windowcleaningnc.com (336) 595-2873.

CINDY’S PAINTING – Interior painting, wallpaper removal. References & free estimates available. (336) 708-9155. PAINTING – INTERIOR & EXTERIOR 32 yrs. exp. Sheetrock repair. No job too small. Insured. Brad Rogers, (336) 314-3186. Spring is right around the corner. Looking to ensure your home is ready for the new season? Looking for new ideas? Look for our At Home special publication, coming March 22.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION HAMMERSMITH WOODWORKING LLC. Carpentry, custom cabinetry, built-ins, exterior repairs. ASP – Helping Hand. Over 30 years exp. Call Carlton, (336) 404-3002. JLB REMODELING, INC. Remodeling and additions. Fully insured. NC GC license #69997. Free est. Call (336) 681-2902 or visit www.jlbremodeling.com.

 HOME SERVICES

 MISC. SERVICES

PREMIER CONSTRUCTION. Providing all of your home maintenance needs, remodeling and new construction. (336) 430-9507.

HANDYMAN FOR ALL OUTDOOR PROJECTS. Tired of bs from so called “handymen”? I charge by the hour (min. 3 hours). Includes the use of hand & power tools (chain saw, weed eater, brush cutter, blower, trailer & gas). I’ll haul away for free: trees, brush, trash, and debris, you pay disposal fee only. Memo Larach (336) 634-2034 or magicmemo@icloud.com.

BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION Kitchens/baths, custom decks, garages, siding, dock work, windows, rooﬁng, rotted wood. Sr. disc., 38 years exp. (336) 362-6343.

www.nwobserver.com ORTIZ REMODELING – Total restoration & home improvement. Drywall, painting, kitchen cabinets, interior trim & more. Free estimates. (336) 280-8981. RENOVATION WORKS, INC. New construction, remodeling, additions, kitchen, bath and decks. We are a locally owned, full-service design and build company, A+ accredited with the BBB. Visit www.myrenovationworks.com or call (336) 427-7391 to start your next project. KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION 30 years experience. Specializing in room additions, kitchens & baths, garages, vinyl siding and windows, painting, ceramic tile, laminate, hardwood and linoleum ﬂoors, and remodeling of all kinds. No job too small. Free est. Call (336) 362-7469.

ROOFING CLINARD & SON ROOFING, LLC Residential roofing, rubber flat roofs, roof coating, metal roofs. 30 years experience. Now accepting all major credit cards. Call (336) 643-8191 or (336) 580-3245. KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION 30 years experience. Residential shingle & metal roofing. Free est. (336) 362-7469. PREMIER ROOFING CONSTRUCTION Insurance specialist, free inspections, res./ comm., BBB A rating. (336) 430-9507. A.L. CORMAN ROOFING INC. Res. roofing specialist serving Guilford Cty. area since 1983. BBB 25+ years w/ A+ rating. cormanroofinginc.com, (336) 621-6962.

WildlifEviction – NUISANCE WILDLIFE TRAPPING & REMOVAL. Hearing noises in your attic or crawlspace? Give us a call for a FREE inspection. (336) 908-4709. SAM’S AUTO BODY SHOP. Any type of body work. 45 years exp. (336) 347-7470.

 MISC. FOR SALE

 MISC. WANTED

SPLIT & SEASONED FIREWOOD. Deliv-

$$$ – WILL PAY CASH up to $200 for your

ery available. (336) 643-9332.

junk or wrecked vehicle. (336) 552-0328.

 MISC. WANTED FABRIC NEEDED for Sew to Sow Ministry to make dresses for girls in Kenya. Buttons, ribbons, lace trimming, elastic and thread needed. Cotton fabrics work best, any amount. Call Beth, (336) 644-8155. Sew to Sow Ministry in need of gently used, WORKABLE SEWING MACHINES. Call Beth, (336) 644-8155. FREE PICK-UP of unwanted riding & push mowers, any and all gas items, tillers, go-

BITCOIN: Don’t “buy” it...MINE IT! Builds, Consult, Maintain or Rigshare; text “CRYPTO” to (336) 339-7061 for info.

carts & golf carts, ATVs, generators, power

COMPUTER REPAIRS – ITBASICS.COM Inside Mailboxes & More, Oak Ridge Commons. (336) 643-0068.

Advertise in the NWO Classiﬁeds

thanks

our advertisers for

making each weekly issue possible!

 MISC. FOR SALE Improve ﬁtness with Total Gym Platinum Plus EXERCISE GYM. Like new; attachments plus 4 CD’s. Original cost $352, now $200. (336) 931-1239 after 6pm. DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible CRIB with toddler rail & Sealy Posturepedic mattress. Cherry ﬁnish; was $357, now $245. Like new. (336) 931-1239 after 6pm. 2 KEROSENE HEATERS with 3 containers for kerosene. Call (336) 643-9866. SEASONED FIREWOOD, delivered and stacked, 1/2 cord, $80. Call (336) 686-6373.

washers, chain saws. (336) 689-4167. Have an item you are in need of?

critters

Check out our Pets & Critters section in the first issue of every month

 PETS & ANIMAL SVCS. ORCHARD AND FESCUE HAY square bales perfect for cows and goats. Contact (336) 298-7621.

...continued on p. 30

www.nwobserver.com

Jam-packed with valuable info for northwest Guilford County residents

Keep it handy, use it often

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

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FEB. 15 - 21, 2018

 PETS & ANIMAL SVCS.

 REAL ESTATE

HAPPY JACK XYLECIDE is a fungicidal shampoo to treat ringworm and allergies for dogs and horses. Available at Tractor Supply. (ﬂeabeacon.com).

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

HOMES FOR SALE

Ready for a NEW FAMILY MEMBER? Visit adoptshelterpets.org to see animals at the Guilford County Animal Shelter in need of a loving home.

PET SITTING / BOARDING KPS – KELLY’S PET SERVICES Professional in-your-home PET SITTING. Insured & bonded. Member Pet Sitters International. Openings currently available for Oak Ridge only. Call (336) 706-6706, email kpsforyourpets@gmail.com, www.facebook. com/kpspets, or @kpspets on Instagram.

OAK RIDGE COMMERCIAL OFFICE Approximately 1,000 sq. ft., 2BA, $1,250/mo. (336) 669-5233.

We Help Everyone!

OPEN HOUSE Sun, Feb 18 • 2- 4pm

SELLERS & BUYERS

HOMES FOR RENT 1-bedroom, 1-bath basement apartment ,large space, all utilities, cable, and WIFI included. $750 per month. (336) 944-4371. Duplexes for rent, $700 month. No pets. OAK RIDGE & STOKESDALE. (336) 706-1887. OAK RIDGE, 1-rm. furn. apt., LR/BR, bath, kitchenette area, $600/mo. (336) 669-5233.

(336) 643-4248

www.ANewDawnRealty.com HOMES FOR SALE

Every once in a while a true gem appears – this gorgeous updated home has 3 BR on the main level and BR & bonus upstairs. Community pool/tennis/clubhouse. Only $494,500!

DeDe Cunningham

Want to reach our 26,000 readers? Contact Laura at advertising@nwobserver.com

Our Spring 2018 At Home special publication is coming March 22! Email Laura at advertising@nwobserver.com to reserve your space.

7564 Haw Meadows Dr. Arbor Run Community

REALTOR®/Broker NC Licensed Contractor

(336) 509-1923 dedesrealestategroup.com dedecunningham@kw.com

138 Cobblestone Walk, Greensboro 4 BR, 4 BA with many custom features. Side-entry garage, ML master suite and guest bedroom on the main floor, vaulted great room, bonus room, loft, large eat-in kitchen with walk-in pantry and island. $568,000 Follow QR code to view Virtual Tour

Jan Cox

Potent ial office park! 6.14-acre wooded site zoned for business/office use in the commercial core area of Oak Ridge. 1/8 mile south of the N.C. 68 and 150 intersection, with turn lanes from both directions on N.C. 68. 1/4-mile commercial driveway leads to 4,400-square-foot main house/office building which is complemented by guest house, outbuildings and tennis court plus large landscaped island with gazebo/picnic area and pasture. Established tenant is willing to stay in place. Offered at $918,000. Visit www.berkshirehathawayhs. com/nancy-hess-real-estate-agent and select “My Listings” for photos and more details.

(336) 382-1849 gcoxj11@gmail.com Each office is independently owned and operated.

Real Estate Showcase Ads are a great way to spotlight your home Contact Laura, (336) 644-7035, ext. 11

7581 Fintry Drive, Greensboro

Exceptional home in like-new condition, one owner, full walk-out basement, gourmet kitchen with all the bells and whistles, beautiful homesite, Northwest school district, superb location. $379,900

For superior marketing call Ramilya Siegel CRS, GRI, SRES, Chairman’s Circle Award ( 336 ) 215.9856

ramilya.siegel@atcmail.com www.allentate.com/RamilyaSiegel

Want to be a part of our next NWO Real Estate section? Nancy J. Hess

nancy.hess@bhhsyostandlittle.com (336) 215-1820

FEB. 15 - 21, 2018

Reserve your ad space today (336) 644-7035, ext. 11 advertising@nwobserver.com

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

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index of DISPLAY ADVERTISERS

Please support our advertisers, Carlotta Lytton, CPA, PA .................. 12 Kimberly Thacker Accounting ............. 7 Samuel Anders, CPA, MSA, PC ......... 12

AUTOMOTIVE Vestal Buick, GMC, Inc.. ................... 24

BUILDERS Brian Disney Homes .......................... 17 Brian Thompson Homes ................... 15 Builders MD ...................................... 19 Disney Custom Home........................ 15 Don Mill Builders .............................. 17

Borden Dentistry ............................... 26 Devaney Dentistry .............................. 2

EVENT Goodwill Industries of Central NC, Inc. .. 18

FUNERAL HOME

and tell them where you saw their ad! ACCOUNTING

DENTISTRY

Jason Smith-Smith Marketing ...... 15-16 Johnson and Lee .............................. 17 Lansink Custom Homes .................... 16 Naylor Custom Homes ..................... 16 Precept Construction ........................ 17 R&K Custom Homes ........................ 16 Ray Bullins Construction ................... 15 Walraven Signature Homes .............. 15

Forbis & Dick, Stokesdale .................... 7

HEALTH & FITNESS Snap Fitness ..................................... 10 YMCA of Greensboro ....................... 22

HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Guardian Ad Litem ........................... 23

BEK Paint Company .......................... 28 Carpets by Direct ................................ 3 Elegant Transformations by Marcie ... 12 Max Kendall Lumber & Tin ................ 7 Midtown Furniture ............................ 32 New Garden Select .......................... 20 Old School Home Repair .................. 28 Prostone ........................................... 20 Stokesdale Heating & Air .................. 18

CHURCHES

LEGAL SERVICES

Crossroads Community Church .......... 8

Barbour & Williams Law ...................... 4

CHILDREN’S SERVICES

Spring 2018

Spring

Ingle Law............................................. 7 The Law Offices of Susan Greeson ... 26

MEDICAL CARE / PRODUCTS Bethany Medical Center ...................... 9 Dove Medical Supply ........................ 25 LeBauer Healthcare .......................5,11 Northwest Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery ... 24 Novant NW Family Medicine ............. 23

ORTHODONTIC CARE Olmsted Orthodontics ...................... 23

PET SERVICES & PRODUCTS Bel-Aire Veterinary Hospital .............. 12 Northwest Animal Hospital ................. 4 Veterinary Hospital of Oak Ridge....... 12 Westergaard Kennels .......................... 6

REAL ESTATE A New Dawn Realty .......................... 30 Berkshire Hathaway, Yost & Little ..... 21 Dede Cunningham, Keller Williams ... 30 KW Builder by Design ....................... 30 NextHome in the Triad ..................... 14 Ramilya Siegel, Allen Tate ................ 30

2018 edition

Coming March 22 Reserve your ad space today!

Home-grown stories about everything from maintaining and improving your home, to housing trends, history and humor of life in northwest Guilford County In print every spring and fall and online year-round at nwobserver.com

ications published by pscommun

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

FEB. 15 - 21, 2018

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

Postal Patron PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310 â&#x20AC;¢ (336) 644-7035

*See store for complete details. Sale does not apply to previous purchases. See store for complete financing details.

PAID

Oak Ridge, NC Permit No. 22 ECRWSS